Soul Collective: An Art Gallery and Workshop Space Coming Soon to South Phoenix

Noreen Ayonayon's worked out of her tattoo studio and art space for almost two years. And on January 13, she's opening it up to the public.

The local artist says she hopes the space, called Soul Collective, will be a hub for art, poetry, music, film, and design in South Phoenix -- an area that she says definitely lacks a support system (galleries, art houses, etc.) for local artwork.

"I know so many artists on the south side who travel up to First Fridays in downtown Phoenix or elsewhere to show their work," she says. "There's a big community here with tons of creative people -- we just need a space."

Until the official opening on January 13, Ayonayon says she and her business partner will be busy setting up the space on Central Avenue and Roeser Road for rotating exhibitions, workshops, and performances from local bands, poets, and troupes.

On opening night, the space will feature artwork by Ayonayon, Bonding Hendrix, and a few more artists from the neighborhood, as well as performances by local poets, LBK, and Quinton and Edward.